Why You Need That Bottle of Water

Our bodies are made up of 60% water, these bodily fluids are essential in aiding digestion, circulation, absorption and transporting of nutrients as well as maintaining body’s temperature. Every day we lose water from our bodies from perspiration, urine and other bodily functions therefore maintaining the balance of body fluids can only be achieved by replenishing the fluids lost. Some doctors recommend consuming 3 to 2 liters of water a day to maintain a healthy body. Though the more popular notion is the “8 by 8” rule, that is 8 glasses of water a day ( about 1.9 liters) since we still take in water from fresh fruits, vegetables and other beverages. However caffeinated drinks and alcohol tend to dehydrate your body only fresh juices are recommended due to the added benefits of vitamins and minerals. In addition most beverages have the disadvantage of calories which will lead to weight gain if taken in excess. Therefore a glass of water is the best alternative to be taken with every meal or snack.

A glass of mineral water by Walter J. Pilsak from Wikimedia Commons

Importance of Water

1. Water promotes healthy glowing skin and believe it or not actually prevents wrinkles. This is because dehydration tends to dry out your skin leaving it dull and ten times older in appearance. An interesting article on the Dailymail featured Sarah, who started an experiment drinking 3 liters of water every day and in one months she appeared 20 years younger. Read More
2. Water boosts your immune system by ridding your body of toxins and preventing dehydration when you are taken ill.
3. Water helps to energize your muscles and relieves fatigue.
4. Water maintains health bowel movement and prevents constipation.
5. You maintain health kidneys and eliminate the risk of kidney stones by drinking more water every day.
6. Drinking water boots your brain functions and makes you more alert and focused.
7. Muscle cramps and joint pains can be relieved by drinking water when you work out.
8. Water also has the added advantage of promoting weight loss.

The amount of water you drink every day will depend on how active you are as well as the weather. However the best way to know if you are consuming the right amount of water is your urine. If your urine is free flowing, light in color and odor free then you are already on the right track.